Health and Human Services

Kinesiology: Exercise Physiology

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Kinesiology exercise physiology pathway prepares a student to transfer to a four year institution to continue their pursuit of an undergraduate/graduate degree in exercise physiology. Exercise physiology studies how exercise affects the body and mind.

Accelerated Personal Fitness Training

Certificate (CER)

The Accelerated Personal Fitness Training Certificate prepares students who currently hold a degree in kinesiology or related field for successful employment in the fitness industry as a personal fitness trainer. Graduates are prepared to take the Certified Personal Training examination administered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. The NSCA-CPT is a nationally accredited certification program in the fitness industry.

Practical Nursing

Certificate (CER)

The Practical Nursing Certificate Program prepares students for employment in long-term care facilities, clinics, and hospitals. Graduates are eligible to take the licensing examination for Licensed Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN). This program is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Criminal Justice Education

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The Criminal Justice Education program is designed to provide transfer students with the necessary background to complete a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Graduates may enter careers in municipal, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies or in the private security field. Students interested in completing baccalaureate degrees in criminal justice and related majors are strongly encouraged to complete an A.A. degree prior to transfer. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate degree program in criminal justice as juniors, students need to complete a minimum of 60 semester credits from the framework below. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor and the catalog of the four-year college or university they plan to attend.

Elementary Education

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

To teach in Illinois public elementary schools (grades 1-6), teachers must be certified by the state of Illinois. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in elementary education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 60 semester credits. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.A. degree prior to transfer. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should be aware that a minimum grade point average for most universities is required for program admission. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP), or pass the ACT + Writing with a score of 22+ (see an advisor for further details), and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Parkland’s Academic and Career Advising Center for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach at the elementary level in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Nurse Assistant

Certificate (CER)

The Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program prepares students to care for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse in a long-term care facility, a hospital, assisted living facility, or in the home. The program is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, www.idph.state.il.us/nar/home.htm. After successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency exam.

Special Education - A.A.

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

Students interested in completing a baccalaureate degree in special education are strongly encouraged to complete an AA. or A.S. degree prior to transfer. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in special education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 30-60 credits. UIUC recommends early transfer after completion of 30 credits, including required courses. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should be aware that a minimum grade point average for most universities is required for program admission. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test, and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Academic Advising for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach in special education in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Sterile Processing Technician

Certificate (CER)

The Sterile Processing Technician training program prepares students to clean and sterilize reusable utensils and equipment, organize and package instrument trays and sets, keeping detailed records of equipment maintenance, stock crash carts, organize supplies and maintain an adequate inventory of instruments and disposable items to meet the needs of doctors, nurses, surgeons, and technical staff throughout the hospital. By training in this field, the student will learn infection control techniques to keep hospitals and other medical facilities as well as surgical instruments safe and free from the spread of diseases. Students will learn to prepare instruments for sterilization, loading and unloading a steam sterilizer, and basic cleaning procedures. The course is approved by the Illinois Community College Board and at the completion of this certificate, students are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CSPDT).

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course prepares the student to provide pre-hospital assessment and care for patients of all ages with a variety of medical conditions and traumatic injuries. Areas of study include an introduction to emergency medical services systems, roles and responsibilities of an EMT, anatomy and physiology, medical emergencies, trauma, special considerations for working in the pre-hospital setting, and providing patient transport. The EMT Program meets the National EMS Education Standards (current edition), National EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019), and the Illinois EMS Scope of Practice Model Skills (2019). Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Registry EMT cognitive exam.

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program prepares the student to practice occupational therapy at the assistant level. OT assistants work with clients who have physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments to improve and support functional performance in daily living activities. Employment opportunities are located in hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, school systems, day-care centers, and home health care.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to take the certification examination given by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) to become a certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA). A felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT exam or attain state licensure. Licensure for COTAs is also required for practice by the state of Illinois. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., 6116 Executive Blvd., Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD, 20852-4929, 301/652-AOTA, www.acoteonline.org.

Applied Electrocardiography Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Applied Electrocardiography certificate provides training for the student who plans to work in an office that provides care to patients with cardiac diagnoses. Students must be enrolled in or have completed Medical Assisting certificate program, or have the permission of the faculty.

Early Elementary Education

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

To teach young children in Illinois public schools (birth to second grade), teachers must be certified by the state of Illinois. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in early childhood education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 60 semester credits. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.A. degree prior to transfer. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. A minimum grade point average for most universities is required for program admission. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP), or pass the ACT + Writing with a score of 22+ (see an advisor for further details), and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Parkland’s Academic and Career Advising Center for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach at the early childhood level in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred transfer college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Secondary Education - A.S.

Associate in Science (A.S.)

To teach in Illinois public high schools (grades 6-12), teachers must be certified by the state of Illinois. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in secondary education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 60 semester credits. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.A. or A.S. degree prior to transfer. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission to any particular transfer institution. Students should be aware that a minimum grade point average is required for program admission at most universities. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test, and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Parkland’s Academic and Career Advising Center for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach at the secondary level in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Kinesiology: Athletic Training

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Kinesiology athletic training/therapeutic pathway prepares a student to transfer to a four year institution to continue their education for a job that involves restoration of human function.

Nursing: LPN to ADN Bridge

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Associate Degree Nursing Program prepares the student to practice nursing at a beginning level, such as a staff nurse position in health care facilities including hospitals, extended care facilities, clinics, and community agencies. The program integrates practice and theory and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326, 404/975-5000. Graduates are eligible to take the RN license examination (NCLEX-RN). Students considering application to the Nursing program need to be aware of background check, drug screen, and potential legal limitations.

The LPN Advanced Placement Program (also known as the LPN to ADN Bridge Program) is a program within the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. It is designed to allow graduates of a state-approved Licensed Practical Nursing program with a current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to enter into upper level Nursing (ADN) courses.

Personal Fitness Training

Certificate (CER)

The Personal Fitness Training Certificate prepares students for successful employment in the fitness industry as a personal fitness trainer. Graduates are prepared to take the Certified Personal Training examination administered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. The NSCA-CPT is a nationally accredited certification program in the fitness industry.

Dental Hygiene

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Dental Hygiene Program prepares students to become part of the dental health team. The dental hygienist is responsible for providing such services as scaling and polishing teeth, taking radiographs, applying fluoride and surface sealants to the teeth, and local anesthesia and conscious sedation. The dental hygienist is the primary oral health educator in clinical and nonclinical settings. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, American Dental Association. For state licensure, Graduates must successfully complete a National Dental Hygiene Board Examination and a Regional (clinical) Board Examination.

Medical Assisting

Certificate (CER)

The Medical Assisting program prepares students to act as a liaison between the physician and the patient. Medical assistants are skilled healthcare workers who demonstrate their knowledge in both clinical and administrative areas. In the administrative area, typical tasks include medical records management and patient scheduling. Clinical tasks include taking vital signs, EKGs, venipuncture, administering medications and immunizations, sterile instrumentation, and point of care testing. Medical assistants primarily work in outpatient settings but may work in hospitals, medical billing companies, or any place office skills and medical knowledge merge.

The Medical Assisting Program is approved by the American Registry of Medical Assistants, www.arma-cert.org and the National Healthcareer Association, www.nhanow.com. Upon completion, students will be eligible to sit for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exam. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).

Veterinary Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

Veterinary technicians are dedicated veterinary professionals who aid animals by providing excellent care and services. Certified Veterinary Technicians under the supervision of a veterinarian may do the following: clinical laboratory testing, radiographic procedures, pharmacy duties, anesthesia induction and monitoring, surgical assisting, dental prophylaxis, nursing care and patient treatments, client education, and record keeping. This program is accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Special Education - A.S.

Associate in Science (A.S.)

Students interested in completing a baccalaureate degree in special education are strongly encouraged to complete an AA. or A.S. degree prior to transfer. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in special education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 30-60 credits. UIUC recommends early transfer after completion of 30 credits, including required courses. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should be aware that a minimum grade point average for most universities is required for program admission. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test, and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Academic Advising for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach in special education in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Kinesiology: Sports Management

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Kinesiology sports management pathway prepares a student to transfer to a four year institution to continue their education for a job on the business side of sport, exercise, and equipment.

Nursing: Paramedic Advanced Placement (Paramedic to ADN Bridge)

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Associate Degree Nursing Program prepares the student to practice nursing at a beginning level, such as a staff nurse position in health care facilities including hospitals, extended care facilities, clinics, and other community agencies. The program integrates practice and theory and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326, 404/975-5000. Graduates are eligible to take the RN license examination (NCLEX-RN). Students considering application to the Nursing Program need to be aware of background check, drug screen, and potential legal limitations.

The Paramedic Advanced Placement Program (also known as the Paramedic to ADN Bridge Program) is a program within the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. It is designed to allow graduates of a state-approved EMS-Paramedic program with an unencumbered license to enter into upper level Nursing (ADN) courses.

Radiologic Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Radiologic Technology Program prepares students to take the national examination for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The radiographer performs diagnostic procedures using an X-ray machine to take images of the internal parts of the patient’s body.

Social Work

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The profession of social work is devoted to helping people function optimally in their environment by providing direct and indirect services to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities and by working to improve social conditions. Bachelor’s degree programs in social work prepare students for careers in public and private agencies such as child welfare, mental health, corrections, shelters, and many other workplaces. Students interested in completing bachelor’s degrees in social work are strongly encouraged to complete an Associate in Arts degree prior to transfer. To transfer into an accredited bachelor’s degree program in social work as juniors, students need to complete a minimum of 60 semester credits (up to a maximum of 64 semester credits). Students should contact their academic success advisor about the particular social work baccalaureate program for specific entry requirements, including language requirements. Since admission is competitive, completion of these courses alone does not guarantee admission.

Radiologic Technology: Computed Tomography Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Computed Tomography Certificate Program offers advanced training for radiologic technologists. Upon completion of the certificate, graduates will be prepared to take the national ARRT certification exam.

Surgical Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Surgical Technology Program prepares students with the technical expertise necessary to perform as vital members of the surgical team. Surgical technologists work in a fast-paced environment requiring physical stamina, critical thinking, technical skills, and professionalism. The A.A.S. is the required level of entry credential for the surgical technologist. Theory and clinical experience in area health agencies are included in the program. This surgical technology program is in the continuing accreditation cycle and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education programs (CAAHEP), www.CAAHEP.org.

Nursing

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Associate Degree Nursing Program prepares the student to practice nursing at a beginning level, such as a staff nurse position in health care facilities including hospitals, extended care facilities, clinics, and community agencies. The program integrates practice and theory and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326, 404/975-5000. Graduates are eligible to take the R.N. license examination (NCLEX-RN). Students considering application to the Nursing program need to be aware of background check, drug screen, and potential legal limitations.

Respiratory Care

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Respiratory Care Program prepares students to enter into the practice of respiratory therapy. A Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) will assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic respiratory disease or acute respiratory compromise due to illness or injury. Most respiratory therapists are employed in acute care hospital settings. Long-term ventilator facilities, home care, and outpatient diagnostic laboratories offer other opportunities.

This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to complete the National Board for Respiratory Care exams for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. Practice requires state licensure in every state except Alaska.

Kinesiology: Teaching/Coaching

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Kinesiology teaching/coaching pathway prepares a student to transfer to a four year institution to major in a physical education teacher education program. As part of the Parkland curriculum, the student can become a certified coach through the American Education Sport Program.

Emergency Medical Services: Paramedic Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The EMS-Paramedic Certificate Program prepares students to practice as an advanced EMS provider with opportunities for increased responsibility. The students will achieve competencies in the cognitive, psycho-motor, and affective domains from didactic instruction, classroom lab skills, and actual clinical application with patient contacts under the supervision of a trained pre-hospital and hospital preceptor. Students will learn to administer medication, start intravenous lines, interpret EKG rhythm strips, and deliver the appropriate interventions, as well as to administer many other advanced life support procedures. The EMT Program meets the National EMS Education Standards (current edition), National EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019), and the Illinois EMS Scope of Practice Model Skills (2019). Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Registry for Emergency Medical Technicians Paramedic examination.

General Studies

Associate in General Studies (A.G.S.)

The Associate in General Studies (A.G.S.) degree program consists of courses designed to meet individual goals for personal improvement and self-understanding. This program is designed for students who wish to earn an associate’s degree but not in a specific career or transfer area. This associate’s degree is not covered by the "articulation compact program" nor by the Illinois Articulation Initiative.

Basic Operations Firefighter I Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate prepares the student to become a Basic Operations Firefighter I.

Emergency Medical Services: Paramedic

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The EMS-Paramedic A.A.S. Program prepares students to practice as an advanced EMS provider with opportunities for increased responsibility. Students will achieve competencies in the cognitive, psycho-motor, and affective domains from didactic instruction, classroom lab skills, and actual clinical application with patient contacts under the supervision of a trained pre-hospital and hospital preceptor. Students will learn to administer medication, start intravenous lines, interpret EKG rhythm strips, and deliver the appropriate interventions, as well as to administer many other advanced life support procedures. Both tracks in the EMS Paramedic/Firefighter A.A.S. program meet the National EMS Education Standards (current edition), National EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019), and the Illinois EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019). Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Registry EMT cognitive exam.

Secondary Education - A.A.

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

To teach in Illinois public high schools (grades 6-12), teachers must be certified by the state of Illinois. To transfer into an approved baccalaureate program in secondary education as a junior, students must complete specific requirements and a minimum of 60 semester credits. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.A. or A.S. degree prior to transfer. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission to any particular transfer institution. Students should be aware that a minimum grade point average is required for program admission at most universities. All transfer applicants are required to pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test, and this score may be required at time of application. Contact Parkland’s Academic and Career Advising Center for more information about this test and suggested timing. Students planning to teach at the secondary level in Illinois are advised to plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor or counselor to meet specific requirements of their preferred college or university and the Illinois State Teachers Certification Board.

Radiologic Technology: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certificate Program offers advanced training for radiologic technologists. Upon completion of the certificate, graduates will be prepared to take the national ARRT certification exam.

Mental Health Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Mental Health Certificate prepares students for entry-level jobs in social services and mental healthcare fields by training them to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and/or substance abuse crises. Students will gain knowledge of the rules for mandated reporting of abuse/neglect of children and seniors, communicate with therapeutic language using a trauma-informed approach and other de-escalation techniques, maintain basic records, and comply with current privacy regulations. By training in this field, students will learn basic skills to engage the needs of mental health and social services clients and provide assistance to organizations and individuals providing treatment.

Advanced EMT Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) primarily provides basic and limited advanced emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. The AEMT possesses the basic knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation and functions as part of a comprehensive EMS response operating under medical oversight. They perform interventions using the basic and some advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. They take on the critical role of being the link from the scene of the emergency to the emergency health care system. The Advanced EMT Program meets the National EMS Education Standards (current edition), National EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019), and the Illinois EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019). Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Registry Advanced EMT cognitive and psychomotor exams.

Emergency Medical Services: Firefighter

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The EMS-Paramedic/Firefighter A.A.S. Program prepares students to practice as an advanced EMS provider with opportunities for increased responsibility. Students will achieve competencies in the cognitive, psycho-motor, and affective domains from didactic instruction, classroom lab skills, and actual clinical application with patient contacts under the supervision of a trained pre-hospital and hospital preceptor. Students will learn to administer medication, start intravenous lines, interpret EKG rhythm strips, and deliver the appropriate interventions, as well as to administer many other advanced life support procedures.

The Basic Operations Firefighter track offers students the unique opportunity to combine fire service technology with a paramedic degree. This program track is intended to assist individuals interested in pursuing a career in firefighting. Upon successful completion, the student will meet requirements for Illinois OSFM, ProBoard, IFSAC NFPA Firefighter I certification. Earning the Paramedic licensure alongside a Basic Operations Firefighter certification makes the student more marketable to employment selection boards. Both tracks in the EMS Paramedic/Firefighter A.A.S. program meet the National EMS Education Standards (current edition), National EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019), and the Illinois EMS Scope of Practice Model skills (2019). Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Registry EMT cognitive exam.

Fire Service Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

This program is designed to allow entry level, volunteer, and professional firefighters to complete an Associate in Applied Science degree at Parkland College. Completion of this degree offers students the opportunity to a career pathway as an entry level firefighter or elevate their career potential at their current department. The Fire Service Technology degree program allows students who are new to firefighting or are already a professional firefighter to earn an A.A.S. degree while they are completing courses at fire training institutes or within their departments with completion certificates from OSFM or IFSTA.